Nov 113 min read

South African Star Tyla Shines at 2024 MTV EMAs

beautiful girl holding awards — Tyla wins big at the 2024 MTV EMAs

South African sensation Tyla made history at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), claiming her first-ever EMA awards in three major categories: “Best Afrobeats,” “Best R&B,” and “Best African Act.” The wins mark a significant milestone, highlighting African music’s growing influence on the global stage.

Meanwhile, music powerhouse Taylor Swift dominated the night, winning multiple awards, including “Best Video” for Fortnight (featuring Post Malone), “Best Artist,” “Best Live,” and “Best US Act.” Swift’s impressive victories further established her as one of the night’s biggest stars.

The show, hosted for the third time by British star Rita Ora, took place in a setting inspired by Manchester’s rich musical history and legendary warehouse parties. Ora delighted fans with a series of eye-catching outfits and invited the global audience into “Rita’s Bar,” a specially designed set on a balcony overlooking thousands of attendees. A poignant moment during the ceremony honoured the late Liam Payne, with Ora delivering heartfelt words in his memory.

Alongside Tyla, performers Benson Boone and LE SSERAFIM celebrated their first EMA wins, with Boone securing “Best New” and LE SSERAFIM taking home “Best Push.” Peso Pluma, who previously won “Best New” in 2023, continued his success with a win for “Best Latin” this year.

Sabrina Carpenter claimed “Best Song” for her hit Espresso, while other major winners included Ariana Grande (“Best Pop”), Calvin Harris (“Best Electronic”), Imagine Dragons (“Best Alternative”), Eminem (“Best Hip-Hop”), Jimin (“Best K-Pop”), and a collaboration award shared by LISA and Rosalía. Fittingly, Manchester’s own Liam Gallagher was honored as “Best Rock,” adding a local touch to the night’s celebration.

The show opened with a thrilling performance from Benson Boone, who captivated the audience while suspended in the air, playing a golden grand piano and serenading fans with hits like Slow It Down and Beautiful Things. Tyla brought her latest single, Push 2 Start, to the stage in a dazzling display, wearing shimmering body paint and performing alongside dancers and a car prop. Her set then erupted with audience energy as she performed her viral hit Water.

Mexican rock trio The Warning delivered a powerful, pyro-fueled rendition of their single Automatic Sun, while Best UK & Ireland Act winner RAYE brought the house down with a soulful performance featuring a live band, choir, and dramatic lighting.

Shawn Mendes delivered an intimate set with his live band, showcasing his emotional vocals and winning “Best Canadian Act.” Busta Rhymes, the recipient of this year’s Global Icon Award, received the honour from British rapper Little Simz. Rhymes commanded the stage with a troupe of high-energy dancers in a thrilling medley that included classics like Break Ya Neck and Look At Me Now.

K-pop powerhouse LE SSERAFIM staged an electrifying performance of Chasing Lightning and CRAZY, set against a stormy backdrop. Peso Pluma’s rendition of Hollywood featured a surprise appearance from collaborator Estevan Plazola, with a band and a Hollywood-inspired set spelling “PP.”

The grand finale featured the inaugural 2024 MTV EMA Pop Pioneer recipients, the Pet Shop Boys. The duo, joined by the Manchester Camerata in their iconic cone hats, celebrated the 40th anniversary of West End Girls with a visually stunning performance, blending local musical talent with their signature style in a tribute to Manchester’s legacy.

Full List of 2024 MTV EMA Winners

BEST SONG

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso

BEST VIDEO

Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone - Fortnight

BEST ARTIST

Taylor Swift

BEST COLLABORATION

LISA ft. Rosalía – NEW WOMAN

BEST NEW

Benson Boone

BEST POP